The Pursuit of Contentment

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

These words are among the most famous contained in the Declaration of Independence. Many people take the final part of the phrase, "the pursuit of Happiness", absolutely and fully to heart. After all, this is a "free" nation, and we have the right to pursue our own happiness, right?

Many pursue happiness in their job. You know that person who just can't seem to keep a job. These people toil along with a job for a while, but they soon tire with it and move onto the next great job. (cf. Matt. 6:19-20). Others pursue happiness in their relationships. Some guys and girls just can't seem to keep a boyfriend or girlfriend. There is always someone else that is better or more fun to be with. Sometimes this pursuit finds its way into marriages. Everyone has the right to be happy, don't they? This is the argument that is used to split many a marriage (cf. Mal. 2:16).

Paul has something interesting to say about the pursuit of happiness. Remember what Paul wrote the church in Philippi?

"…For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil. 4:11-13)

Paul could be content. Does anyone remember what it means to be content? The American Heritage Dictionary defines the adjective for of the word as meaning "desiring no more than what one has; satisfied". The noun form of the word is defined as "something contained". One could make a case that being content in its whole refers to appreciating everything that one's life contains at the time.

Look back to the previous text. Remember where Paul was when he wrote this? Paul was imprisoned in Rome (cf. Phil. 1:12-16; Eph 6:20). If anyone was qualified to speak on this matter, it would be an imprisoned Paul. Look closely at what he says, though: he learned to be content. As with most people, impatience may have been a part of his nature. Paul instead fought that tendency, and learned to be content with whatever state he was in.

As Paul worked for the Lord, there were no doubt times that he experienced loss and need (cf. 2 Cor. 11:23-28). Despite his station in life, Paul knew how to be content. Paul knew where true strength and contentment came from. It did not come through pursuing happiness on this earth, but rather pursuing God and His will (Matt. 6:33). Paul found his contentment in working for the Lord. How about you?